MitOst e.V. is an independent, non-governmental, non-profit association based in Berlin, Germany. Established in 1996 by alumni of the Robert Bosch Stiftung along with volunteer enthusiasts, MitOst initially set out to foster networking and cultural exchange, especially focusing on Central, Eastern, and South-Eastern Europe. Since its founding, the organisation has expanded considerably, now counting around 1,400 members across 45 countries.
MitOst’s work includes supporting active citizenship, cultural exchange, social cohesion, and both urban and rural development. The association provides training, financial, and professional backing to its members, encouraging initiatives such as exhibitions, public space campaigns, theatre workshops, and international exchange programs. Its portfolio of activities is shaped by a commitment to enabling cross-sector collaboration, with programming that ranges from the “Actors of Urban Change” urban development initiative to international non-formal education projects.
An annual highlight is the International MitOst Festival, which serves as a meeting point for change-makers from throughout its network—drawing close to 400 participants each year in varying locations. The organisation is known for its flexible response to changing social challenges, including recent support efforts for Ukrainian cultural actors.
MitOst also places an emphasis on transparent governance, with members actively contributing to strategy through assemblies and thematic forums. The association is headquartered at Herzbergstraße 82-84 in Berlin and employs around two dozen staff members.